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Tips For Adopting A Rescued Cat

April 1, 2025
Are you considering bringing a feline companion into your home? If that’s the case, you might be planning a trip to a shelter to find your cat. We love seeing cats getting second chances! Of course, adopting a kitty is a big shift, so there are many things to consider. Continue reading for assistance from a local Aldergrove, BC Canada vet on finding Fluffy and settling her in.

Selecting the Right Kitty

Selecting a cat can be both fun and intimidating. After all, Fluffy will be with you for a long time, perhaps even decades. Finding the right fit is crucial. Here are a few things to consider. Breed: With cats, there aren’t as many variables to consider as with canines. The AKC recognizes approximately 200 dog breeds, each of which differs significantly in size, features, energy levels, and grooming requirements. There is less variance in kitty breeds than there is with dogs, but it still plays a role in your pet’s character and physiology. Siamese cats are known for their energetic and friendly nature, as well as their willingness to express themselves, sometimes loudly. A Ragdoll, on the other hand, is likely to be a sweet, quiet little love bug, while many Maine Coons have big bodies and big purrsonalities to match. Age: Age is another consideration. Cats in shelters are at various phases of life. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. 
  • Kittens are charming, lovable, lively, playful, and incredibly cute. It’s also beneficial to raise your pet yourself, so she becomes acclimated to your voice and demeanor early on. Just bear in mind that baby cats are like furry little toddlers: they’re small bundles of mischief who are extremely playful.
  • Adult cats are also lovely. Fluffy may still be active, but she has likely outgrown the need (or capacity) to burrow under your entertainment center or climb the shower curtains.
  • Seniors are also quite endearing. A senior cat may not be as playful as a baby, but this isn’t always a bad thing. It’s lovely to have a quiet pet who just wants to sleep and cuddle. It can also be incredibly fulfilling to provide a happy, comfortable retirement for a sweet kitty. However, an older cat is going to be more vulnerable to various medical problems. 
Appearance: Many of our customers believe their cats are the cutest felines ever, and none of them are wrong! Many people have particular preferences regarding your cat’s coat length, color, or pattern. It’s fine to pick the cat you think is cutest, as long as you connect with her. History: If you’re getting a kitten, this is generally a moot concern, but it’s something you should consider with an older cat. This is especially important if you have other pets. Some cats get along nicely with dogs and other cats. Others are better off as only pets. Personality: Each kitten has her own personality. One kitty may be a cuddling lapcat, while another may like to spend her time silently (or loudly) criticizing you from atop her pet tower.  Health: If you’re looking through pet listings, you might discover a few cats with FeLV. Fluffy can still have a rich and happy life despite her diagnosis. However, if you already have a cat who isn’t infected, this would not be a good match. If you wish to obtain two kittens, try getting two that are FeLV positive. Costs: Cats are not the most expensive pets, but there are some expenses associated with adopting and caring for Fluffy. Make sure you can afford your feline friend’s food, litter, and veterinarian care. Fluffy will also require toys and catnip, but the expenses should be minimal. There is also the X factor. Fluffy may reach out with her paw to grab your sweater at the shelter. Alternatively, you could fall for that sweet shy cat in the corner. Follow your heart!  Got kids? Bring your children along, and watch how they and your future pets react. If the feline you’re interested in is scared of your child, it might not be a good fit.

Getting prepared

Before bringing your kitty friend home, you’ll need to gather some items. Fluffy will require the following:
  • Food 
  • Toys
  • Carrier 
  • Dishes
  • Beds
  • Leash and Harness
  • Litterbox and Litter
  • Furniture
Some of these choices should be made keeping Fluffy’s age in mind. If you have a kitten, you should avoid clay and clumping cat litter. A senior could require a box that is low to the ground and easy to get into and out of. Place your pet’s belongings in a peaceful location so she has a comfortable place to relax.

Take Fluffy To The Aldergrove, BC Vet

One of the first things you should do is take your furry friend to the vet. We really like meeting new patients! Aside from purr checks, Fluffy will receive a thorough nose-to-tail examination. Your cat will also need to be tested for illnesses and parasites. The shelter environment can be crowded, so there is always the possibility of disease and parasite transmission. This is especially critical if you have other pets.  Here are some of the most prevalent infectious diseases in cats.
  • Feline immunodeficiency virus
  • The Feline Leukemia Virus
  • Rabies
  • Ringworm
  • Feline Infectious Peritonitis:
  • Respiratory Infections
  • Cat Scratch Fever
Your vet will discuss any recommended screenings or panels with you. This is also an excellent time to ask questions regarding your cat’s care requirements. Receive personalized guidance on your pet’s diet, grooming, and overall care. We’re always glad to assist! We recommend initially isolating your kitty buddy from other pets. Don’t let them interact until your vet gives you the all-clear.

Schedule an Appointment at Our Aldergrove, BC Canada Veterinary Clinic

Are you looking for a good veterinarian in Aldergrove, BC? Do you need to take your new pet in for a checkup? Do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help!

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